Margaret Thatcher is claimed to have engaged in two extramarital affairs, as revealed in a new book. The former British Prime Minister, who shared a long marriage with her husband Denis, reportedly had a relationship with a fellow politician early in her career as a Member of Parliament, and later with another separate political figure.
Renowned journalist Tina Gaudoin, in her book titled “The Incidental Feminist,” also alleges that Mrs. Thatcher had a “special friendship” with a close aide who would touch her knee during dinner engagements. Gaudoin mentioned that individuals she interviewed for her book described Mrs. Thatcher as unexpectedly alluring, with many stating that she exuded a certain charm in person that was not immediately apparent. They noted a palpable presence whenever she entered a room.
According to Gaudoin, various sources, including former Conservative minister Jonathan Aitken, disclosed that Mrs. Thatcher was romantically linked to someone early in her parliamentary career and potentially later with Sir Humphrey Atkins, a former Conservative MP and Cabinet minister under her leadership.
In response to questions about Atkins, Aitken commented on the rumors circulating at the time, hinting at Atkins’ physical appeal to Mrs. Thatcher but criticizing his lack of political acumen. Another politician quipped about Atkins’ seemingly undeserved promotions, raising questions about the reasons behind his career advancement.
Insiders further informed Gaudoin that Lord Bell, Mrs. Thatcher’s PR chief, spoke of a “special friendship” with her, mentioning instances where he would place his hand on her knee during social gatherings. However, Gaudoin clarified that the relationship likely did not progress beyond certain boundaries.
Contradicting these claims, Lord Moore, the author of Mrs. Thatcher’s authorized biography, stated that while he had heard the rumors about Atkins before, there was no concrete evidence to support them.
During a discussion at the Cheltenham Literature Festival, as reported by The Times, Gaudoin also revealed details about Mr. Thatcher’s close bond with former model Mandy Rice-Davies post-Mrs. Thatcher’s tenure at Downing Street. Rice-Davies, known for her role in the Profumo affair alongside Christine Keeler, engaged in a correspondence with Mr. Thatcher that reflected mutual affection and shared interests in military history and vacationing.
These revelations shed light on intriguing aspects of Margaret Thatcher’s personal and professional life, offering a nuanced perspective on the iconic political figure.